Dear friends,
To learn more about the retreat – and to secure a reservation – please visit http://www.auroyoga.org or http://www.bookretreats.com
Maria Karastergiou welcomes you to the SHAMBHALA MALDIVES RETREAT 2022 in the island of Maalhos, in Maldives
Nov. 10 at 12:00 – Nov. 16 at 18:00
An 7-Day Journey of acknowledging and connecting with your True Self
By: Maria Karastergiou
Early registration (€100 discount)
Early registration is available till the 30th of August or until the retreat is sold out, whichever occurs first.
Gathering together for seven days of self-growth workshops, open-hearted talks, silent and guided sitting, standing and walking meditations, yoga practice, and pranayama, diving, swimming, Snorkeling, massage treatments, Coaching sessions, hikes…In a supportive, non-judgmental, accepting, healing field of safety and goodness, we will explore more insightful and intuitive states of ourselves.
Breathe deeply! Observe the inhalation and exhalation process, feel your body, connect with the energy that surrounds you, hold your deepest longings, your deepest dreams, and your challenges in the loving arms of the ETERNAL NOW!.
In the intimacy of your awareness, in the acceptance οf every single experience, in the light of your connection with your True Self, accept and embrace yourself. Live your own unique, authentic heart journey!
REGISTRATION DETAILS:
Registrations for the retreat will be taken in the order that they are received.
Optional activities will be proposed, as massages with professional therapists, consultations, diving, excursions in the Snorkeling sites of the island, swimming in the most beautiful beach of Maldives, in Maalhos island, hiking in the island.
Accommodation will take place in a beautiful Boutique Hotel, in front of the sea in the island of Maalhos. It is likely that single room accommodations will fill very quickly, so if this is your preference, we highly recommend that you contact us as soon as possible. You can contact us at mariakarastergiou@gmail.com or auroyogahimalaya@gmail.com
About the Yoga Teacher, Maria Karastergiou
www.auroyoga.org or at auroyogahimalaya@gmail.com
WHERE
In the tropical turquoise beauty of Maahlos, in Maldives, the exotic Shambhala Maldives lRetreat 2022 offers an 7 days retreat. This yoga retreat is environmentally friendly and promotes an environment of peace, serenity and tranquillity. The surroundings of this small island with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, is situated in the UNESCO world biosphere of Baa Atoll representing a high diversity of marine ecosystem, various species of fishes, coral reefs, soft corals, marine turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, baby sharks, dolphins etc.
We wanted to support this Environmental sensitive area that’s why we organised our retreat in this place. We have chosen an accommodation that is supporting the above program and assisting to the spiritual evolvement of the place through the organisation of yoga retreats. Diving in this area is a meditative practice of contemplation and exploration of the alien life inhabiting the bottom of the Baa Atoll in the Indian Ocean. For adventurous souls addicted to the high levels of adrenalin not many activities could parallel the excitement of diving the Baa Atoll. The thrill of close encounters with the wild creatures of the deep, like whale sharks, these peaceful giants, and manta rays, the wonderful beings of the ocean is unparalleled.
Diving in Baa Atoll, the biosphere protected by Unesco, those virgin waters filled with colourful marine life offers a place unlike anywhere else in the world. Underwater photographers and wildlife enthusiasts can find in the diving sites of Baa Atoll a heaven of flora and fauna, of multicoloured reefs, of a biosphere rich and abundant in sea life.
During this retreat, participants not only are introduced to the yoga fascinating spiritual world, but also to the mystic and exotic marine world. Encounters with high diversity of reef animals and mammals in the biosphere protected ecosystem of Baa Atoll, in Maalhos island, are impressive, unforgettable and life-transforming.
This retreat in Maldives is based on the Yogic philosophies, focusing on Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation practices, Pranayama and Yoga Nidra, Mindfulness and Contemplation. Vegetarian/Vegan/Raw Vegan food eating to detoxify and rejuvenate the system. Massage treatments of various kinds for relaxation. Healing and relaxing the body, disciplining and stilling the mind,, ceasing all this incessant mind noise allows the retreat participants to experience this precious stillness and silence!!! Being able to listen the subtle voice of their Consciousness, the True, Permanent and Infinent Self.
Welcoming the Sun every morning with the Namaskaryas or Sun Salutations, and the morning Yoga practice, a flowing, type of yoga, with deep Ujjayi Breathing and alternating long restorative postures with more dynamic ones is releasing blockages by unblocking the energy from the Energy Centers or Chakras. It’s strengthening the Parasympathetic Nervous System, and calming and purifying the Sympathetic NS at the same time.
The founder of this Yoga Retreat, was a successful Paris and Athens based psychotherapist who after spending years in search of true spirituality, well-being and inner peace in Indian meditation centers, in a Buddhist monastery, in yoga retreats, sound healing meditations, rebirth sessions, reiki initiations, she had an epiphany in an Indian community and created her own approach, Auroyoga. She decided to offer the same life-changing experience to others and established this
Shambhala Retreat taking place in different parts of the world.
This spiritual and wellness retreat is guided by the loving principles of Yoga philosophy and practice, aiming to serve the human community.The Shambhala Maldives Retreat is a sanctuary to experience a simple but exuberant life in close proximity with the healing power of the nature. It is a great place to undergo a complete transformation and come truly conscious, alive and vibrant.
The healing practices in this retreat, focus on balancing the Vortices of energy, the Chakras or Energy Centers., Each day’s schedule in this yoga retreat is balanced with yoga and meditation sessions, Ayurvedic treatments, high nutritional food, self growth work. Besides the usual practices of a typical yoga retreat our retreat also provides plenty of time and occasions for activities like Diving, hiking, bird watching, village walks, cycling, swimming, snorkeling, and just relaxing, sitting quietly and contemplating the ‘ Big Turquoise’ (‘Big Blue’).
The participants of this retreat will derive the maximum benefit, from Yoga, from this ancient practice and from the island, from the local culture and traditions, local food, peaceful, healing energy. Waking up to the birdsongs and experiencing the beauty of the nights under the canopy of stars is a blissful experience!!!
Yoga
Witness the flow of mind and body, aware of every breath. Inhale the fresh prana of the island out on the beach, to the backdrop of the rushing waves or in the Yoga Shala. Exhale slowly as your whole being is relaxing. The path to inner peace, is the departure point of this spiritual experience with the inner guidance of Maria, the yoga teacher.
Yoga for Beginners
If you are new to Yoga, this introduction is perfect for you. This session will include some easy postures, breathing exercises, meditation, profound relaxation with Yoga Nidra session and an introduction to the spiritual world of Yoga through Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras.
Sunrise & Sunset Yoga
Enjoy the sounds of the sea and the warmth of the sun while practicing yoga on the beach, either as the sun rises or as it sets. No previous experience is necessary and all levels are welcome. This session will include asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing techniques beneficial for diving as well), meditation and Yoga Nidra relaxation..
Auroyoga
This blend of dynamic and restorative yoga postures is suitable for those who wish more dynamic and flowing asanas. The postures are performed with vinyasa and are combined with a powerful breathing, Ujjayi Breathing, a deep, long, ancient Pranayama technique.
Yoga Nindra (Yogic Sleep)
Yoga Nindra is the extremely deep relaxation technique.It allows a profound relaxation of the nervous system and healing of the body and dee connection with the consciousness. This practice is done in the lying position and 20’ of Yoga Nidra corresponds to 3 hours of deep sleep.
Pranayama (Breathing)Yoga and Diving
The different techniques of Pranayama are used to become aware, control and direct the breath. The aim behind the technique is to restore and maintain the health of a person, while increasing the capacity of the lungs and directing more Prana (the primal energy of the Universe, the most subtle matter) to the energy centers of the body or Chakras.
Meditation
Meditation is the art of complete bliss that leads you to Samadhi, a state of peace and harmony beyond the Earthly planes. Loosing your Ego gradually by initially focusing your complete attention in one object, then one activity, then one higher concept, and ultimately meditating on the Divine. Going thus beyond the Self, loosing any sense of individuality and merging ultimately with the Divine (Samadhi).
Diving
Maldives has protected dive sites and locations and sea life, throughout the archipelago. The Baa Atoll Unesco Biosphere Reserve was officially opened to implement: a Conservation Programme, a Learning and Research Programme and a Sustainable Development Programme. It’s setup directly under the Ministry of Environment and Energy of Maldives and the Environmental Protection Agency in order to be more efficient in the above objectives. In this protected reserve one can see more fish life and coral formations than could otherwise be seen. Maldives has sunny weather almost all throughout the year, except during the monsoon. It’s ideal conditions for a warm water dive into the underwater realms with as high water temperatures as 27C – 30C. 
Yoga and Diving– blissful combination!
The two share the key element of both practices: breathing. I was studying pranayama techniques as Anuloma Viloma, Kapalabhati etc when i was in Kho Tao for my Advanced Diving Certificate. Breathing is equivalent with life. When we stop breathing life stops. However, we breathe shallow most of us in the big hectic cities. The more shallow we breath the more stressed we become and vice versa. During this 8-days retreat in Maldives, participants will get back to their essence, reconnecting with their breathing, the essence of their life. They will learn to find deep relaxation and recharging to the fullest by breathing from the belly (like newborn babies) with Ujjayii Breathing. An ancient Pranayama technique.
Yoga and diving are the ultimate combination for another reason. Yoga assists the practitioners to find inner stillness. That’s exactly what is the gate to enter and connect deeply with the marine life, with all these beautiful marine creatures. The marine life is featuring magnificent coral gardens, reef animals, enchanting sea creatures, as dolphins, baby sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, whale sharks, make diving, this underwater adventure, exhilarating and precious! I remember after starting diving i stopped eating fish. It was so touching to see them in their natural environment, beautiful and innocent, calm and happy that i no longer was able to kill and eat them. It would be a violation of nature’s sacred gifts.
The retreat is only suitable for certified divers but for non-divers we can provide the opportunity to learn how to dive before the retreat starts.It lasts 8 days and includes daily yoga classes and 6 diving trips as well aa a fun trip for a dolphin cruise.
This YD (Yoga and Diving) retreat in the Maldives is a unique and fascinating Maldivian experience and adventure. Retreat participants will leave the retreat feeling deeply connected with themselves and with the nature!!!
The benefits you will gain from this Retreat
Discover what brings you purpose and contentment
Bring balance to your life
Heal from your past to feel calmer and happier
Become healthier by detoxing, purifying the body
Feel vibrant and rejuvenated
Create the inspiration to take the next step in your life
Highlights
6 Nights accommodation
2 Meals Daily prepared with love and the most nutrient Ingredients
daily Guided 120-minutes yoga classes with Pranayama, guided meditation, and Yoga Nidra Relaxation
Self-growth workshops
Swimming
Village local activities
Hikes
Sandbank, Dolphin and Manta trip
6-days diving package (12 divings)
Diving equipment and boat fees
Style
Auroyoga, Astanga, Kundalini, Vinyasa, Partner Yoga, Yoga Nidra, Agni Yoga
Language
English, French, Greek
Schedule
For the participants, the Retreat organised a schedule during their stay. The day will begin with the Yoga flowing practice in the morning followed by a delicious breakfast.. Swimming, Snorkeling, diving and rest time will follow.. In the evening after self-growth workshops, and sunset meditation they are served a delicious dinner under the stars. .
07:30 – 09:30 Group 120- minute Yoga Practice 09:30 -10:30. Breakfast
10:30- 12:30 Diving, or Self growth workshop and treatments
12:30 – 17:30 Rest/Free Time
17:30 – 18:30 Evening yoga Program
19:00 – 20:00 Dinner under the stars,
20:00 cultural music and dance, or Self Time, or Sweet Dreams
What is Included
- A personal pre-retreat questionnaire to understand your lifestyle
- • Group workshops: coaching, and practical activities
- • Daily Auroyoga (restorative/vinyasa/astangha/partner/Agni yoga)
- • Sunset meditation sessions to harmonise body and mind
- • 2 delicious meals created by Saidi, our chef.
- • enjoy one coplimentary relaxing massage
- • Snorkeling
- • One coplimentary coaching session
- • Comfortable en-suite accommodation and exclusive toiletries
- • 6 Divings (diving option)
What is not Included
- Visa costs
- International flight tickets
- Airport Transfers
- Personal expenses of any kind
Experience Highlights
- Daily Guided 120-minutes invigorating Auroyoga class
- Daily Guided Sunset Meditations
- 6 diving packages (Diving option)
- Diving equipment and boat fees
- Sandbank trip and dolphin cruise
- 6 Nights en-suite accommodation in a 3* hotel
- snorkeling
- One coplimentary consultation session
- One coplimentary massage treatment
- 2 Daily delicious meals
- Group workshops and practical exercices
- Swimming in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean
- Time out to walk, rest, reflect or treat yourself a massage
Accommodation
Baa Atoll, Maalhos Island
Located in one of the most beautiful and serene islands in Maldives, Maalhos Island, Madi Finolhu is a 3* seaside boutique hotel. 
The hotel is a wellness center that offers the visitors a healing touch to soothe their minds and bodies from the challenges of life. Located in front of the Indian Ocean, it offers a serene ambiance and with plenty of places to relax, gardens, lounges, dining hall and a spa. The attached bathrooms are elegant with hot water facilities. The pristine setting and family friendly environment of this Yoga Boutique Hotel is designed to make the participants of the retreat feel the warmth of hospitality. Every member of the hotel team is attentive to the needs of the guests, reflecting the traditional hospitality of Maldivian people.
Madi Finolhu is located in the UNESCO protected world biosphere of Baa Atoll. The centre is perched on a private stretch of sunset beach where sunrise and sunset yoga sessions take place to the backdrop of the mighty turquoise-coloured Indian Ocean.
Madi Finolhu features elegant, clean, contemporary rooms, adjoined by private terraces shaded by tropical trees. The rooms consist of standard, suite and deluxe rooms fully air-conditioned and fitted with comfy double or twin beds. Each room is equipped with a satellite TV, safety box, a mini-fridge and coffee and tea making facilities. The adjoined bathrooms come with deluxe outdoor rain showers.
Madi Finolhu is offering a wide range of services, and a swimming pool, a spa with massage/treatments. The participants of the retreat will be accommodated in this fascinating beach setting in shared or single occupancy Deluxe rooms appreciating convenient onsite activities and amenities such as Private bathroom, Towels, Linens, Free toiletries, free WiFi, patios, and Satelite TVs. room service, minibars, and coffee makers, safe box,, Yoga Shala, Restaurant, Rollaway beds (surcharge), Laundry facilities, Babysitting or childcare Service (surcharge) etc
Food
In this yoga retreat, the meal arrangements are made to meet the nutrition requirements with delicious vegetarian /vegan/raw vegan meals. This Retreat serves fresh food originating from the local organic gardens. This Yoga Retreat takes special care to preserve the quality and the taste of the food. The retreat offers vegetarian and sugar free dishes with or without eggs and dairy products. The yoga retreat is inclusive of 2 meals a day, prepared with love by the chef Saidy, using locally grown and preferably organic products. Fresh veggies and exotic fruits, vegetarian curries it is one big nourishing buffet feast of flavors enjoyed by the seaside of Maalhos Island. Other special dietary requirements can be catered for upon request.
As more and more people are discovering, nature’s way is often the best eating a well-balanced diet is one of the safest, simplest and most natural ways to keep fit and healthy. In the restaurant there’s breakfast and dinner with local Maldivian island food from locally grown food and seasonal dishes. Freshly picked, more nutritious and not to mention a lower carbon impact. This sea view restaurant is offering local as well as international and fusion cuisine..
Activities
While staying here, participants can also take a tour on the Dolphin cruise and explore the pristine beauty of the surrounding or engage in local activities such as coconut weaving workshop, or a cooking class, and relaxing with the local culture and traditions, local music and dances…
Spa
It offers traditional holistic living and ancient healing methods of the East. The team of spa therapists are ready to take participants on a holistic journey to the true authentic self. Ayurvedic health treatments, Thai massage and Balinese massage are offered in the Spa for everyone interested in holistic healing, detoxification, and Relaxation.
Cancellation Policy
A reservation requires a deposit of 30% of the total price.
The deposit is not refundable
The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
Booking
4 Booking Options
En-suite room prices are from £1,195 per person for a twin share room and £1,595 per person for a single room (for non-diving option) and £2,195 per person for a twin share room and £2.595 per person for a single room (for diving option)
1) Madi Finolhu – Shared room € 1450
2) Madi Finolhu – Single Room. € 1950
3)Madi Finolhu – Shared room (Diving) € 1850
4) Madi Finolhu – Single room (Diving) € 2350
Swimming with turtles, these tricentennial
gentle giants, stirs up a lot of emotions,
overwhelming experience ??♂️??♂️
Cycling around the island is adventurous ?
Sail into the sunset at Baros island on the 19-metre long vessel Nooma with its elegantly curved prow, single sail, thatched roof and sarong-clad crew of four, modelled on the traditional Maldivian sailing Dhoni. Cruising the clear waters to reach the open sea, where the colours of the evening sky dance on the waves. If the sunset cruise isn’t enough, you can book the boat for a romantic dinner cruise or a secret snorkelling experience, where your guide will introduce you to a special black coral reef. ??⛴?⚓️?
If the sunset cruise isn’t enough, Madi
Finolhu can prepare a romantic dinner
or a private romantic cruise experience❤️
